Udupi: In a devastating incident at Manganese Wharf in Gangolli village, approximately eight fishing boats and one boat parked along the Manganese road were engulfed in flames, leaving a trail of destruction. State Minister for Ports and Fisheries, Mankala Vaidya, visited the site on Monday afternoon to assess the damage and express condolences to the affected fishermen.
Addressing the media, Minister Vaidya shared his distress, stating, “My initial thoughts were different, but witnessing this is very disheartening. I understand the plight of fishermen and their suffering. I have already discussed the matter with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister, and we will make sincere efforts to provide compensation and support to the affected fishermen. The government and the department are committed to helping and cooperating in difficult situations.”
Investigations are underway by both the police and the Fisheries Department to determine the cause of the fire. With significant assets in the port areas, plans for the construction of a pump house will be coordinated by the department or the insurance company. Minister Vaidya emphasized the need to address system issues in the port area, involving the responsibilities of the panchayat.
Officials, including MLAs Yashpal Suvarna and Kiran Kumar Kodgi, former minister Kota Srinivasa Poojary, and BJP District General Secretary Sadananda Uppinakudru, inspected the site and assessed the extent of the damage. Talks with local fishermen leaders revealed an estimated loss of around 10 crores during Diwali, prompting five district MLAs and Legislative Council members to seek special relief from the Chief Minister.
Former minister Kota Srinivasa Poojary expressed concern over the significant financial loss in the fire disaster, urging immediate action to provide compensation and grants for affected fishermen to rebuild their lives. Efforts will be made to expedite insurance compensation, with a meeting planned under the leadership of the MP.
As the fishing community grapples with the complete destruction of their boats and livelihoods, the government faces mounting pressure to intervene and assist in the recovery efforts.
